Like some of the other people writing here, I had the great luck to get to know Tom primarily through sporting endeavours. Tom was a newbie at my workplace at the time and while his fainting spell on the first day wasn’t terribly auspicious, it wasn’t long before I realised that the big T was made of far tougher stuff than I. Mind you, his delayed arrival at the office the next day with a huge black eye did seem to auger something special to come.

Our friendship developed after Tom’s enthusiasm for triathlon and his natural persuasiveness and friendliness convinced me to give the sport a try and I then spent long hours over many years trying to keep up with him in the pool, on the bike and pounding the pavement (not to mention skiing!).  However, Tom was always ahead of me and pretty much anyone else, but always looking back and providing encouragement. I continue today to try and emulate the extraordinary levels of fitness and determination that Tom had in such abundance. Where did he get the ability to train so hard while still doing such an amazing job at home and work? It’s not something I can answer.

What I came to see during all those miles chasing his butt on the bike or run, or at races, partying and just relaxing was that Tom will always be the guy that I admire – confident without arrogance, courageous, adventurous, funny, intelligent, provocative when he wanted to be and above all, a mate that you could trust with your life, all day and every day.

I consider myself most fortunate that I can call Tom a friend and mate, you will always be with me as a wonderful role model.  All the best mate.  I’m sorry that I won’t be at the wake, but I’ll be racing the Long Course Champs in your honour.  To Kim and Bella, just know that Kath and I are only a phone call or a short plane ride away.  Tom might have been taken away far too early, but at least we had the opportunity to know him.

David